Energy production is one of the world’s top priorities, as our global population continues to expand and non-renewable resources dwindle. While solar energy is by no means a new concept, the means by which we harvest that energy is being continually researched and redesigned, with ever more innovative ideas springing up on a daily basis. Virtually everyone is familiar with the solar panel at this point in time, but cost and bulk have presented obstacles for some in their widespread implementation. However, a new design developed by researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) stands to blow those obstacles literally out of the water.
Led by professor Daniel Nocera, a group of MIT scientists have created an artificial leaf that is capable of turning sunlight directly into a chemical fuel that can be stored for later use, simply by splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Now, splitting atoms is not something that we usually think of as being characterized by the word “simple,” but the process that the artificial leaf uses to do this is nothing more or less than that. And the best part is that it utilizes abundant, inexpensive materials for its operation, making the device accessible to virtually every person on the planet.
Although it is designed to mimic the process of photosynthesis, the artificial leaf actually looks nothing like a leaf. It is a simple silicone cell that uses thin layers of catalytic materials, such as cobalt and nickel, to convert the sunlight into electric charges that in turn separate the hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The separated hydrogen can then be stored and transferred to a fuel cell to be converted into electricity as necessary. It can be used in any water source, even dirty, unfiltered water, with the ability to deter bacteria from building up on the surface, which inhibits the production of energy.
This technology is a boon to developing nations who do not always have access to clean water or a reliable energy source, as well as the world at large. With this type of energy production, the possibility of clean, renewable energy is no longer a concept of the future, it is closer to reality than ever before. We’re hoping that Dr. Nocera receives all the support he needs for the artificial leaf to make affordable, reliable energy a part of everyone’s future.
Image via angrylambie1
